Welcome to Feathers, Leather and Sequins!

Welcome to Feathers, Leather and Sequins, my personal fashion blog that chronicles my love of beautiful clothing and accessories and all other things that make me smile! This is primarily a fun and creative escape from my day-to-day life as a stay-at-home mom. And after 7 years of full time motherhood, I need an escape! Recently I have had a few people ask me for outfit ideas and tips, which has been one of my motivations for starting FLS. I hope this blog might help someone, when she is standing in front of her closet trying to figure out what to wear, narrow in on an outfit before feeling totally defeated. I myself have been inspired by so many other blogs (which I will highlight in a later post.) I have been trying to think back to when my love of fashion started and I realized that I have always had a passion for it. I remember as a 7 year old saving up my allowance to buy

this hot plaid number from Marshalls and then making my Dad take shots of me modeling it. Trust me, my ability to pose has not gotten any better. I also remember NEEDING a pair of tassel loafers when I was even younger, because my Aunt had a pair, and they were simply amazing. Fast forward through school years and college and work. I miss going to work because I used to dress up for it! Before kids, I worked in Atlanta and Boston and dressed the part. Even when I was pregnant with my children, I took pride in the maternity clothes I wore. Then, during a period of time after each child was born, I kind of let things slide. I shudder at the thought of some of the things I wore, not because I am shallow but because I know I was sleep deprived, not feeling great about myself and grabbing anything that fit me out of my closet. Once I knew I was done having kids, I got back into shape and decided to start dressing for myself again. At first I got a lot of comments, wondering where I work, was I off to a meeting, what was the special occasion etc. Nope, I explain, just my usual run to Whole Foods or school pickup. But I feel so much better and walk a little straighter when I wear an outfit that makes me smile. And born is my very short and simple fashion credo....wear what makes you smile. And go about your day!

Thank you to all my friends and family who have listened to me talk about FLS and been so encouraging! I would not have had the confidence to move forward if it weren't for your motivation. And a special thank you to the person who has helped make it all possible and has the talent to make me willing to post pics of myself online.....Meredith Nelson of Meredith Nelson Photography! We have been life-long friends, been through thick and thin, even share the same birthday and now I assist her with her photography business (scheduling and singing....yes, I sing to make the children smile during her sessions!) Meredith is entering her busy season yet she didn't even hesitate when I asked if she would be willing to take pictures for FLS. Thank you, Meredith, for your talent and patience with me as I figure this out! Please check out her web site! She is beyond talented.

To introduce my blog, I thought it only appropriate to do so by its name. We start with Feathers.........

When I told my friend about opening my blog with a feather outfit, she couldn't believe that I actually own a feather skirt. I LOVE this skirt. I bought it around the holidays and have had so much fun wearing it. One thing I like to do with my outfits is to pair opposites. I love the edginess and femininity of the feathers paired with the classic and casual feel of a white button down shirt. It helps to balance out an outfit, allowing you to add a certain style element to your wardrobe without going all the way. Add jewelry and some beautiful heels...and go have fun!

Shirt J.Crew * Skirt Club Monaco * Heels Sam Edelman * Necklace Etsy * Bracelet J.Crew (similar here) * Earrings J.Crew Factory